Cardo PACKTALK PRO User Manual

1. Introduction

If you have not yet installed the PACKTALK PRO device on your helmet, install it according to the instructions included in the packaging. You can also watch an installation video at the following link: https://youtu.be/z7vgvRgjxbY.

For easy operation on the go, download the pocket guide from: https://cardosystems.com/cdn/shop/files/PACKTALK-PRO_Pocket-Guide_EN.pdf?v=373676047018542338.

Before first use, download the Cardo Connect app and follow the on-screen instructions to update your PACKTALK PRO software to the latest version.

This is version 1.0 of the PACKTALK PRO manual. The latest versions of manuals in your preferred language and various tutorials can be found at: https://cardosystems.com/pages/support/packtalk-pro.

2. Introduction to PACKTALK PRO

2.1 Get to Know PACKTALK PRO

Diagram showing the PACKTALK PRO unit with labels: Media, Mobile, Control Wheel, LED Indicator, USB Charging and Audio Connector, Intercom.

2.2 Charging PACKTALK PRO

Ensure the PACKTALK PRO battery is charged for at least 4 hours before first use.

To charge the device:

1. Using the provided USB cable, connect your computer or a wall charger to the USB port on the PACKTALK PRO.

NOTE: When using a wall charger, please ensure the charger meets the following specifications:

• Input: 100-240V, 50/60Hz, 0.2A maximum.
• Output: 5V DC, 1A maximum.

Using chargers that do not meet these guidelines may damage the device.

Fast Charging: 20 minutes of charging provides 2 hours of talk time (1.5 - 2 hours for a full charge).

Charging While Riding: If you want to charge the device, connect it to power. You can use the intercom while charging. Your PACKTALK PRO battery lasts up to 13 hours of talk time.

During charging, the LED indicator shows the charging status as follows:

• Solid red LED: Charging
• Solid red LED turned off: Charging complete

TIP: You can check the battery level at any time in the Cardo Connect app or by saying "Hey Cardo, battery status".

2.3 Turning the Device On/Off

To turn on PACKTALK PRO:

Press and hold the [button] and [button] for 2 seconds.

The speaker will play a startup sound. The LED confirms PACKTALK PRO is on:

• Normal battery level: LED flashes blue once, then green.
• Low battery level: LED flashes blue three times, then green.
• Charging: LED flashes red and green.

To turn off PACKTALK PRO:

Press and hold the [button] and [button] for 2 seconds.

The LED flashes red three times to confirm the device is turning off. The speaker plays a sound, and a voice message indicates the battery status, "Battery status X%, ".

2.4 Automatic Power On/Off

Your PACKTALK PRO features automatic power on/off. This option is activated automatically upon the device's first startup.

Automatic power on occurs when the intercom detects movement.

Automatic power off occurs after a few seconds of no movement.

To enable or disable this feature, go to "Settings" in the Cardo Connect app and find the "Automatic power control" option.

Recommended: Manually turn off the intercom before storing or shipping.

2.5 Using PACKTALK PRO

Various PACKTALK PRO functions can be operated as follows:

• Press a button or a combination of physical buttons on the device.
• Use the Cardo Connect mobile app (after pairing with the device).
• Use natural voice control (e.g., say "Hey Cardo, radio on").

2.6 Pairing the Intercom with Bluetooth Devices

Your PACKTALK PRO has two Bluetooth channels for connecting with Bluetooth devices such as mobile phones, GPS devices, and motorcycle TFT displays.

To connect the intercom to a Bluetooth device, you must first pair them. After pairing, they will automatically recognize each other when in range.

If you pair the device with more than one mobile phone, the phone paired to channel 1 is the default phone for outgoing calls.

To pair the intercom with a mobile phone:

1. Turn on Bluetooth on your mobile phone.
2. On the device, in standby mode, press and hold the [button] for 5 seconds. The LED flashes red and blue.
3. On your mobile phone, search for Bluetooth devices.
4. When your PACKTALK PRO appears in the list of available devices, select it.

If prompted for a PIN or key, enter 0000 (four zeros). If the phone asks for access to contacts and call history, grant permission.

The phone confirms successful pairing, and the LED flashes purple for 2 seconds. A voice message confirms "Phone connected".

To end intercom pairing with a mobile phone:

Press and hold the [button] for 2 seconds.

To pair with another Bluetooth device:

1. Turn on Bluetooth on the device (e.g., another mobile phone, GPS device, or motorcycle TFT display).
2. On the device, in standby mode, press and hold the [button] for 5 seconds. The LED flashes rapidly red and blue.
3. Depending on the Bluetooth device, perform the following actions:
   • For GPS navigation: Press the [button] once.
   • For a motorcycle TFT display: Turn the control wheel clockwise (forward).
   • For a second phone: Turn the control wheel counter-clockwise (backward).
4. On the device you are pairing with, search for Bluetooth devices.
5. When your PACKTALK PRO appears in the list of available devices, select it.

If prompted for a PIN or key, enter 0000 (four zeros). If the phone asks for access to contacts and call history, grant permission.

The device confirms successful pairing, and the LED flashes purple for 2 seconds.

• If pairing is not completed within 2 minutes, the device will automatically return to standby mode.
• Not all Bluetooth GPS devices allow connection with Bluetooth audio devices. For more information, refer to the GPS user manual.

3. Cardo Connect App

The Cardo Connect app allows you to configure PACKTALK PRO settings. Additionally, the app offers remote control from your smartphone screen.

3.1 Device Registration

1. Download the Cardo Connect app.
2. Register your PACKTALK PRO.
3. Select your language.

3.2 Device Update

Before first use and every time a new software update is available, ensure you have the latest software version. Updating to the latest software makes the device error-free and provides additional new features.

Your PACKTALK PRO can be updated wirelessly via the Cardo Connect app.

To update your PACKTALK PRO using the Cardo Connect app:

Each time a new software update is available, a pop-up window will appear in the app. Tap "Install now" and follow the on-screen instructions.

If you tap "Remind me later," the pop-up window will reappear the next day.

To update PACKTALK PRO:

1. Open the Cardo Connect app.
2. Tap Settings.
3. Select your device.
4. Select the software version.
5. Tap the "Update now" button.

After the update is complete, tap the "Done" button to return to the main screen.

To update your PACKTALK PRO using a computer:

1. Download and install the Cardo Update tool from: https://www.cardosystems.com/update.
2. Open Cardo Update.
3. Register (first time only).
4. Connect the device to your computer using the provided USB cable and update the software.

Cardo Update for Windows/Mac - Minimum requirements: Windows® 7/macOS x10.8.

3.3 Crash Detection Configuration

PACKTALK PRO has a crash detection feature. For it to function correctly, you must configure it in the Cardo Connect app, following the on-screen instructions.

During configuration, ensure you:

• Grant all required permissions.
• Select your emergency contact.

CONFIGURATION COMPLETE!

You can change your emergency contact at any time by accessing the configuration screen in the Cardo Connect app.

IMPORTANT: For crash detection to work, PACKTALK PRO must be paired with a phone, the Cardo Connect app must be running in the background, and the phone must have a network connection.

If a crash is detected, the app will display a message on the screen and announce it via the intercom.

If it's a false alarm, you have 30 seconds to cancel the emergency SMS to your emergency contact using one of three methods:

• Say the voice command "Ignore".
• Press any button on your PACKTALK PRO.
• Press the red button on the phone screen.

After 30 seconds, if you do not cancel the alarm, an SMS with the message and GPS coordinates will be sent from our cloud to your emergency contact.

SMS is free of charge.

*This service may not be available in your country.

4. On the Road

PACKTALK PRO makes it easy to receive phone calls and listen to music conveniently and safely.

4.1 Basic Audio Functions

Basic audio functions are the same whether you are listening to music, talking via intercom, or making a phone call.

To increase volume:

• Turn the control wheel counter-clockwise (forward).

The sound in the speakers gets progressively louder until you reach maximum volume.

To decrease volume:

• Turn the control wheel clockwise (backward).

The sound in the speakers gets progressively quieter until you reach minimum volume.

To completely mute the microphone:

• Simultaneously press the [button] and the intercom [button].

To unmute the microphone:

• Simultaneously press the [button] and the intercom [button].

4.2 Making and Receiving Phone Calls

You can use your mobile phone to make and receive phone calls after pairing it with PACKTALK PRO.

You can make a call using the intercom hands-free, by using the voice dial option (voice assistant) on your mobile phone, or by using Cardo's speed dial option or redialing the last call.

To make a call:

• To make a call using your mobile phone's voice dial option, tap [button] or say "Hey Siri" (if using an iOS device) or "OK Google" (if using an Android device), then make the call according to your mobile device's instructions.

To redial:

• To redial the last number called on your mobile device, press and hold the mobile phone [button] for 2 seconds or say "Hey Cardo, redial".

To set a speed dial number:

• In the Cardo Connect app, select "Phone". Tap the SET+ option, then select a contact.

To call a programmed speed dial number:

• Double-tap the mobile phone [button].

If two mobile phones are connected to the device, you cannot make an additional phone call from the second phone when a phone call is already active.

During 3- or 4-way Bluetooth intercom calls, users connected on both channels A and B cannot receive phone calls.

To answer a call:

• Press the phone [button] or press the control wheel or say "Answer".

To ignore a call:

• Turn the control wheel clockwise (backward) or say "Ignore".

To end a call:

• Press the mobile phone [button] or the control wheel or say "Hey Cardo, end call".

4.2.1 Switching Between Two Calls on Two Mobile Phones

Your PACKTALK PRO can switch between two active calls on two mobile phones when both mobile phones are paired with your device.

To switch between two calls on two mobile phones (without disconnecting either):

• Simultaneously press the [button] and the intercom [button].

To disconnect the current call and switch to the other call:

• Press the mobile phone [button].

4.3 Streaming Music

You can stream music from a paired device to your PACKTALK PRO.

To start streaming music from a paired device:

• Press the multimedia [button] or say "Hey Cardo, Music on".

To stop streaming music:

• Press the control wheel or say "Hey Cardo, Music off".

To skip to the next track (while streaming):

• Press the multimedia [button] or say "Hey Cardo, next track".

To go back to the previous track (while streaming):

• Double-tap the multimedia [button] or say "Hey Cardo, previous track".

To share music with another user:

• Press and hold the intercom [button] for 2 seconds or say "Hey Cardo, share music".

To switch between FM radio and ATDP music:

• Press and hold the [button] for 2 seconds.

4.4 Listening to FM Radio

PACKTALK PRO is equipped with a built-in FM radio.

To turn on FM radio:

• Double-tap the [button] or say "Hey Cardo, radio on".

When FM radio is turned on, the station played during the last use will resume.

To turn off FM radio:

• Press the control wheel or say "Hey Cardo, radio off".

To go to the next station:

• Press the [button] once or say "Hey Cardo, next station".

To go back to the previous station:

• Double-tap the [button] or say "Hey Cardo, previous station".

To scan and select a station:

1. Press the [button] 3 times. The FM radio plays each found station for a few seconds.
2. When you hear the station you want to select, press the [button].

To save a scanned station as one of the 6 preset stations:

• Use the Cardo Connect app on your mobile device.

To switch between FM radio and ATDP music:

• Press and hold the [button] for 2 seconds.

4.5 Voice Commands

You can use voice commands to operate some PACKTALK PRO functions hands-free. Voice commands use natural voice for operation. Speak the command clearly, and PACKTALK PRO will take action. Voice commands are available in different languages. The default language is English. You can change the language to another available language.

PACKTALK PRO uses the following predefined voice commands:

5. Riding with Others

Your PACKTALK PRO features three different intercom communication modes: traditional Bluetooth protocol, Live Intercom, and Cardo's Dynamic Mesh Communications (DMC) technology.

DMC is the best way to communicate in a group. In DMC mode, you can instantly create or join a dynamic, fluid network of up to 15 users to communicate in full conference mode. Unlike Bluetooth, DMC allows everyone in the group to move freely, change formation, and even leave the group entirely without affecting the ongoing conversations of other users. You can also use the DMC intercom to communicate privately with another user.

Of course, you can still use Bluetooth to connect with devices like your smartphone or GPS, or to communicate with other motorcyclists with intercoms that do not have DMC technology. For detailed information, see Bluetooth Intercom on page 25.

How does DMC work?

Anyone can create a new DMC group.

In DMC intercom mode, users can join, leave, and rejoin existing DMC groups without affecting the ongoing conversation among other group members. If a group member goes out of range, others will automatically reconnect within a fraction of a second with the nearest group member, bypassing the absent rider. This way, all active motorcyclists remain connected.

5.1 DMC Intercom

You can use the DMC intercom to talk with other users in your DMC group. For more information on creating DMC intercom groups, see Creating DMC Intercom Groups on page 22.

When using the DMC intercom, all users in the group communicate hands-free. A user in the group does not need to perform any additional operation to speak or hear others in the group.

With DMC intercom, you can ensure:

• Private conversation with another rider in your DMC group, see Private Chat on page 23.
• Bridging a non-DMC intercom to the group, see Using DMC Intercom on page 22.
• Muting/unmuting DMC intercom groups, see Muting/Unmuting DMC Intercom Groups on page 24.
• Leaving DMC intercom groups, see Leaving DMC Intercom Groups on page 22.
• Listening to music in DMC intercom groups, see Multiple Audio Sources and Volume Management on page 25.
• Switching between DMC intercom and Bluetooth intercom, see Switching Between Intercom Modes on page 28.

5.1.1 Configuring and Using DMC Intercom Groups

You can manage DMC intercom groups to suit your riding needs, including creating groups, joining groups, leaving and rejoining groups, or changing the active group.

DMC intercom groups are created by any rider in the group. Each group can accommodate up to 15 people. When creating a group, all members should be within 5 meters (16 feet).

If a connection to a DMC group is lost, you remain part of the group. When you come within range of any other group member, you will automatically rejoin the group.

If a DMC group splits and some group members remain within range of each other but not of all group members, you can continue talking with the members still within your range. When you come within range of any other group member, you will automatically reconnect with the other part of the group. If you join a new DMC group, you will automatically leave the existing group.

5.1.1.1 Creating DMC Intercom Groups

When creating a DMC group, you must coordinate with other riders on who will be the creator. When creating a group, all members should be within a maximum distance of 5 meters (16 feet).

1. All users press and hold the [button] for 5 seconds. The LED flashes red and green.
2. Upon successful connection of each member, the LEDs of the connected units flash purple. After grouping is complete, the DMC intercom conference will start automatically.

5.1.1.2 Joining DMC Intercom Groups

You can join a previously created DMC intercom group or rejoin it.

To join an existing DMC group:

1. The group administrator allows an additional User by selecting "Add Rider" in the Cardo Connect mobile app.
2. The new User must press and hold the [button] for 5 seconds. The LED flashes red and green.

The LED color indicates if you have been added to the group:

• Purple: You have successfully joined the group.
• Yellow: You cannot join the group because it has reached its maximum number of participants.
• Red: Joining failed.

5.1.1.3 Leaving DMC Intercom Groups

You can leave a DMC group using the Cardo Connect app or by performing a full factory reset.

If you leave a DMC intercom group, you must rejoin it if you wish to connect to it in the future.

5.2 Using DMC Intercom

5.3 Adding a User with a Non-DMC Intercom

You can use the DMC bridging function to add a user with a non-DMC intercom.

To bridge a non-DMC user:

To add a Bluetooth user, use the Cardo Connect app.

The passenger must initiate the Bluetooth intercom pairing.

To start/stop an intercom conversation with a passenger not equipped with DMC:

• Press the [button] 3 times.

5.3.1 Private Conversation

You can have a private conversation with a specific DMC group member. This option is also available via the Cardo mobile app.

To have a private conversation:

1. In the mobile app, select the user you wish to speak to privately.
2. To start/stop the private chat, double-tap the [button].

5.3.2 Muting/Unmuting DMC Intercom Groups

Muting the DMC intercom mutes the microphone and speakers for group intercom communication. The microphone and speakers remain active for phone calls and music listening.

Unmuting returns you to the group conversation.

To mute/unmute a DMC group:

• On the device, press and hold the control wheel for 2 seconds.

5.3.3 To Start/End Sharing a Phone Call:

To start/end sharing a phone call with a DMC group:

To share your ongoing phone call with other DMC group members, press the [button] for 2 seconds. All group members can participate in the phone call.

5.3.4 Receiving Phone Calls During DMC Group Conversations

The phone will ring simultaneously with the conversation, and you can inform the group that you intend to answer the call. When you answer the phone, the group will be muted (including the microphone).

5.3.5 Multiple Audio Sources and Volume Management

The PACKTALK PRO can use parallel audio streaming to simultaneously play audio from two connected sources, allowing you to listen to music or FM radio while having a DMC intercom conversation. The PACKTALK PRO automatically manages the volume of music and FM radio when using the DMC intercom. The PACKTALK PRO also automatically manages the volume of the DMC intercom in conjunction with phone calls and GPS navigation prompts. For more information on background audio levels and source priorities, see Parallel Audio Streaming on page 31.

You can receive a phone call during a DMC group conversation. The phone will ring simultaneously with the DMC conversation, and you can inform the group that you intend to answer the call. The PACKTALK PRO automatically adjusts the DMC intercom volume during phone calls. The PACKTALK PRO automatically adjusts the DMC intercom volume when using GPS.

5.4 Bluetooth Intercom

Your device features Live-Intercom with automatic reconnection for uninterrupted conversations. When the intercom detects a connection loss, it will start trying to reconnect on its own. You will hear a "Reconnecting" message and a beep every 20 seconds. However, you can interrupt these attempts by tapping the intercom button once. The entire reconnection process lasts a maximum of 5 minutes – if the connection is not successful by then, the intercom will disconnect. For smoother operation, when two supported devices are connected, both start connecting simultaneously, speeding up the process. However, if a supported intercom is connected to another Bluetooth device, connection attempts are initiated only from the intercom's side. This is all to ensure comfortable and continuous communication in all conditions.

*Note: The first Bluetooth intercom connection must be made manually.

To connect the intercom to another device via Bluetooth, such as a Cardo Bluetooth device or another manufacturer's Bluetooth-enabled intercom, you must first pair their channels. After pairing, the device will automatically recognize the other device as soon as it is in range.

Channel pairing replaces any existing paired unit on that channel with the new unit.

• Intercom range with other models is limited to the range of the device with the shorter range.

5.4.1 Configuring Bluetooth Intercom (Non-DMC, between Cardo or other manufacturers' devices)

DMC is always the best way to connect a group of users. If you find yourself riding with a group of people who do not have DMC devices (such as Cardo or other brands' Bluetooth intercoms), you can switch your device to Bluetooth mode and create or join a non-DMC group. Users are connected in a chain of up to four people.

To configure BT intercom (Cardo or non-Cardo):

1. Ensure your Cardo device is in Bluetooth intercom standby mode (LED flashes slowly blue).

If the device is not in Bluetooth intercom mode, use the Cardo Connect app. Select Intercom, then Bluetooth mode. For more information, see Switching Between Intercom Modes on page 28.

Universal Bluetooth Intercom: A non-Cardo unit should be in phone pairing mode.

To initiate 2-way pairing:

Diagram showing Cardo Connect app screens: Select Intercom, Switch to Bluetooth mode, Select Bluetooth Rider.

Bluetooth intercom pairing must be initiated on the other device.

To add a 3rd participant:

Diagram showing pairing with a 3rd rider.

Bluetooth intercom pairing must be initiated on the other device.

To add a 4th user, User 1 or 2 connects to an additional user on an available channel according to the above instructions.

5.4.2 Using Bluetooth Intercom

5.4.2.1 Starting/Ending Bluetooth Intercom Calls

To start or end communication with an intercom connected on channel 1:

• Press the [button] once or say "Hey Cardo, call intercom" or "Hey Cardo, end intercom".

To start or end communication with an intercom connected on channel 2:

• Press the [button] twice or say "Hey Cardo, call intercom" or "Hey Cardo, end intercom".

5.4.2.2 Receiving Bluetooth Intercom Calls

If another paired device calls you via Bluetooth intercom, the connection will start immediately.

5.5 Sharing Music

You can share music with your passenger.

• Music can only be shared with one passenger.
• Bluetooth intercom calls are disabled while sharing music.
• If you have paired the device with two mobile phones, music will be shared from the mobile phone from which you last played music.
• When you stop sharing music, it will continue playing only on your device.

To start sharing:

1. Select the user to whom you want to share music using the Cardo Connect app.

If you have a Duo set, you do not need to select this user; they are pre-configured.

2. Start playing music.
3. Press and hold the [button] for 2 seconds to start sharing.

To stop sharing:

• Press and hold the [button] for 2 seconds.

5.6 Switching Between Intercom Modes

Your PACKTALK PRO device can only operate in one intercom mode at a time.

The current intercom mode is indicated by the LED color:

• In DMC intercom mode, the LED flashes green approximately every 4 seconds.
• In Bluetooth intercom mode, the LED flashes blue approximately every 4 seconds.

To switch between intercom modes:

• Press both buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds.

OR

• Use the Cardo Connect app.

The LED color changes, and a voice message indicates the current intercom mode.

6. Troubleshooting

6.1 Soft Reset

If the PACKTALK PRO becomes unresponsive, reset it in one of the following ways:

• Turn it off and then on again (see Turning the Device On/Off).
• Restart the device by pressing and holding the [button] and [button] simultaneously for 10 seconds.

6.2 Restore Factory Settings

This option removes all paired intercoms, devices, and all configuration settings.

To restore factory settings from the main unit:

1. Ensure your PACKTALK PRO is in standby mode.
2. Simultaneously press and hold the [button] and [button] for 10 seconds.

The LED flashes red 5 times.

3. Restoring factory settings can also be done via the Cardo Connect app.

6.3 FAQ

Additional answers to common problems can be found at: https://www.cardosystems.com/support/packtalk-PRO.

7. Device Personalization

Make the most of your PACKTALK PRO by changing settings and customizing the device to your preferences using the Cardo Connect app on iOS or Android devices.

7.1 Using Parallel Audio Streaming

With parallel audio streaming, you can listen to GPS instructions during an intercom call, a phone call, or while listening to other audio sources like music or FM radio.

Simultaneous audio streaming may not work correctly on some iOS devices (e.g., music player or GPS navigation) due to limitations of the connected device.

In some cases, simultaneous audio streaming may not work correctly due to limitations of the connected device (e.g., music player or GPS navigation).

During a 3- or 4-person intercom conversation, if you are connected to only one device, receive prompts from your phone and GPS navigation.

It is not possible to listen to music and talk with others via intercom at the same time.

You can listen to music in the background during an active DMC intercom conversation.

8. Support

For additional information, visit: https://www.cardosystems.com/support/packtalk-pro.

To avoid potential issues and receive our support and warranty protection, we strongly recommend purchasing our products exclusively from authorized Cardo dealers.

Your favorite local store is always the best choice. Unauthorized online retailers and auction sites, such as eBay, are not authorized Cardo dealers, and purchasing our products from such sites is at your own risk. Cardo strives to provide high-quality products and exceptional customer service. We select dealers who share this vision. Purchasing gray market products from unauthorized online sellers is counterproductive and also negatively impacts unsuspecting online consumers who may purchase used, counterfeit, or defective products or devices whose warranties are void. Protect your investment by purchasing genuine Cardo and Scala Rider® products only from authorized dealers.

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All rights reserved. Cardo, the Cardo logo, and other Cardo trademarks are the property of Cardo and may be registered. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Cardo Systems is not responsible for any errors that may appear in this document. The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice.